Viking Mines (ASX:VKA) announced a technical milestone at its Linka Tungsten Project, achieving a 16-fold increase in tungsten grade through initial metallurgical testwork.
Using a relatively simple sighter gravity separation method, the company successfully upgraded a calculated feed grade of 1.4% WO3 to a high-grade scheelite concentrate assaying at 22.9% WO3.
The first-stage "rougher" process yielded a recovery rate of 63.7% using a coarse grind size, which the company expects to further improve through upcoming flotation and grinding optimisations.
The results are particularly impactful because gravity separation is a mechanical process that leverages the high density of scheelite.
By avoiding the expensive chemical reagents and complex infrastructure required for traditional flotation, Viking is positioning the project for a low-CAPEX, rapid-start development pathway.
To accelerate this, the company has entered strategic discussions with processing specialists Mineral Technologies to evaluate modular equipment options.
CEO Julian Woodcock noted that the timing aligns with a robust global market, with Ammonium Paratungstate prices persisting near all-time highs of US$1,850/mtu.
The technical programme, overseen by consultants IMO and Base Met Labs, is now being fast-tracked to maximise total metal recoveries.
Viking aims to capitalise on high market prices and increasing international support for critical minerals.
At the time of reporting, Viking Mines' share price was $0.019.